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Cross Stitch Patterns by Scarlet Quince | Hand v. Hoop/Frame

Hand v. Hoop/Frame

Some of you may have seen my post on the Coffee Break forum; for those who haven't, I'm brand-new to the site.

I've always worked by hand--on my very first project about 12 years ago the hoop got in my way more than it helped, so I've never used one since. Anyone else work by hand? Anyone swear by frames or hoops? I'd appreciate any suggestions/tips/comments you all have.
Thanks in advance
Kathleen

Welcome! I am of the same cloth I only stitch by hand even the BAPs...takes lots of rolling but I do it; seems more comfortable to me. It also may be since I'm able to hold it closer to my eyes that seem to be getting older.

quote:Originally posted by kmcecelia Anyone else work by hand? Anyone swear by frames or hoops?
Kathleen

Small stuff I hold in hand, but for larger pieces I like the scroll frames. I have a number of hoops but find that, unless I'm doing a circular pattern, the stitches on the edges get crimped, or the fabric isn't big enough to sit securely in one big enough that doesn't crimp the stitching. (Wow! How's that for a run-on sentence?)

I ordered a new scroll frame from Sewandso.co.uk. It's the "Elbesee No sew Easy Clip Hand Rotating Frame". It uses plastic clips (much like some hair curlers) to secure the fabric to the rod. It sure was easy to set up, much easier than using tacks or sewing. We shall see how well it keeps the tension, though, as I only just started using it. I ordered the 12" sides so I have lots of stitching area available, maybe 10" compared to about 6" with the one I started my project on. I think I'm going to be very happy with it.

quote:Originally posted by kmcecelia Anyone else work by hand? Anyone swear by frames or hoops? I'd appreciate any suggestions/tips/comments you all have.
Thanks in advance
Kathleen

I have never like working in-hand. I've done it most recently on some bookmarks, but I really like my fabric taut - enough to bounce a small child off of, if possible. I'll use hoops for smalls, and I used to use scroll frames for everything, but nowadays, I use QSnaps mostly. I also have a cheapie universal floor stand that holds anything (not always a great hold, but hey, for $25, what do I expect? LOL). I so much prefer two-handed stitching, that when I work on a travel piece and have to hold the QSnap or hoop, I hate it.

I'm trying to remember if I learned crewel way back when using a hoop - I honestly don't remember...?

Welcome to the site; you'll find lots of help from all the ladies (and gents) here.

Personally I also like hoops or frames as I like the cloth to be as tight as possible. This makes it easy to get the needle through and you don't end up missing the hole and splitting the fabric.

Looking forward to seeing your WIPs.

Best wishes - Christine x

I like mine tight too, or else each stitch seems to have a different tension. Divecat, I looked at your site..Your erhet is looking wonderful..I am envious. YOur idea for keeping the blends on the needles is great. I don't mind threading, so it is not an issue for me.

quote:Originally posted by kmceceliaSome of you may have seen my post on the Coffee Break forum; for those who haven't, I'm brand-new to the site.

I've always worked by hand--on my very first project about 12 years ago the hoop got in my way more than it helped, so I've never used one since. Anyone else work by hand? Anyone swear by frames or hoops? I'd appreciate any suggestions/tips/comments you all have.
Thanks in advance
Kathleen

I'm new too, Kathleen...My preference is for a sturdy hoop which is for use on a table(not screwed on, but which has a stand)...very sturdy, and my absolute fave after years of diddling about with holding a hoop and stitching slowly. I don't have the space in my one-room flat for a floor stand with roller frame.Gill

How do you un-twist floss working with a hoop on a stand? I don't have room for a floor stand either, so a hoop-on-a-stand looks like a good idea. . .

Thanks! Kathleen

Hi Kathleen...When the threads get twisted, just tip up the hoop (so that it's horizontal), and whichever side you're at (at this stage it's immaterial to the action), be it front or back, just let the needle dangle so that the thread(and the needle with it!)will untwist itself...I forget the make of stand, I bought it locally, in Cork, and since it's a shop where I've established a 'valued customer' status, I go there frequently...if you like, I can go there on my way home from college (I'm studying computers, for my sins)during the week, and get the details for you, so that you can track it down in your neck of the woods. It's absolutely no bother for me to do that, so don't go all guilty feeling that you might be taking the mick. My hoop is one of my best bargains ever, and wish I'd bought it years ago!!
Take care,
Gill